It’s highly recommended (and may be a legal requirement) to contract a professional certified guide when attempting to climb many of Ecuador highest peaks. It’s quite possible for experienced hikers to do many shorter hikes and even multi-day treks without a professional guide using books and topographical maps, but for the added security, peace of mind and convenience, it’s generally recommended to hire a mountain guide before venturing into remote wilderness.

Here’s a list of reputable, recommended climbing and hiking trip operators in Ecuador:

Rebecca Adventure Travel offers an exhilarating 6-day hiking adventure through the stunning landscapes of the Ecuadorian Andes. Led by experienced local guides, this journey combines challenging trails with cultural immersion. From picturesque villages to breathtaking mountain views, each day brings a new discovery. With a focus on safety and authenticity, this expedition promises to connect you with the heart of Ecuador’s natural beauty and rich heritage.

Equateur Voyages Passion – was founded by two French-speaking European adventurers who specialize in hiking, trekking and climbing and have been leading trips for over twenty years.
Summit the highest peaks in Ecuador like Cotopaxi Cayambe , Chimborazo, and beforehand, acclimate by climbing the lower Andean peaks like Pichincha Fuya Fuya, Imbabura, Pasochoa and the Ilinizas. Alternatively, trek in the Andes among mountain lakes, charming Andean villages and even an Inca trail and ruins.

Gulliver Travel – Offers exceptional mountain climbing and hiking trips in the Ecuadorian Andes.  Choose from mild lower altitude hikes and treks and work your way up to climbing the massive volcanoes of Cotopaxi, Chimborazo and/or Cayambe. They are a well respected agency that has operated since the 1990’s and specialize in active Ecuador tours.

Cumbre Tours is lead by Karl Egloff. Karl is best known though for having the world record for speed climbing up and down Cotopaxi, Kilimanjaro and Aconcagua. If you’re lucky and request Karl as a guide, you may get to climb with this legend. They have a wide range of climbing, hiking and trekking options including climbing Cotopaxi and the other high peaks of the Andes.

Adventure Life Ecuador Hiking Tours – Hike Cotopaxi on an Ecuador hiking tour, go river kayaking on an Amazon rainforest tour, or customize a hiking trip on an Ecuador adventure. Small group tours and custom travel planning on hiking tours to suit your Ecuador travel tastes!

Valle de las Culebras on the Inca Trail to Ingapirca.
Photo by Jason Halberstadt.

Enchanted Expeditions – Specialists in Galapagos Island cruises and mainland Ecuador vacations. They are pioneers in the Galapagos Islands, operate their own vessels, and offer the highest standards of service and personal attention.

Galapagos Islands .com´s Ecuador Tours – Enjoy low-difficulty hikes in Cotopaxi National Park with lunch on the slopes of Volcan Rumiñahui or a day trip to Pasochoa exploring the Cloudforest and Paramo.